Animals, Horseback Riding, and Implications for Rehabilitation Therapy

摘要: Historically, animals have played an important role in peoples' lives. Domestication of began over 12,000 years ago and continues today (Jorgenson, 1997). Approximately 53 million (56%) households the United States (U.S.) 1994 had a companion animal more than half these one (Albert & Bulcroft, 1988; Beck Myers, 1996; Sable, 1995). U.S. own dogs any other pet, but number cats has been found to be declining, with ownership birds, small animals, reptiles, freshwater fish increasing. Two percent owns average 2.54 horses. People living pets tend younger general population people children commonly dogs, cats, or mammals (Beck 1996). Gammonley Yates (1991) reported that most Americans will pet during their lifetimes serve not only as also working companions for persons disabilities. The earliest recorded use health care was by Florence Nightingale 1860. (1969) observed "a is often excellent sick, long chronic cases especially" (p. 103). She suggested person confined same room might enjoy find pleasure presence caged bird. York Retreat England, late 18th century, setting first therapeutic animals. incorporated its treatment individuals psychiatric problems. This intervention occurred attempt decrease drugs restraints (Netting, Wilson, New, 1987; Willis, extensive from 1944 1945 Pawling, New York. Patients, recovering at Army Air Corps Convalescent Hospital, were encouraged work hospital farm. Since then used many interventions Funding studies involve elusive. Lack funds mostly descriptive samples contributed lack generalizability findings. It difficult convince human service professionals value using modality; frequently met skepticism reluctance. article review therapy disabilities implications issues arise rehabilitation professionals. Review Literature vast amount material published about Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) focused on are easily transported facilities desiring this therapy. Scarce research horseback riding hippotherapy effects literature common types influence some disability poor health. Outcomes alternative modalities presented. divided into two major sections. section outcomes horses second Interventions Using Animals utilized levels pediatrics geriatrics, acute-care outpatient rehabilitation/community care, prevention healing. Intervention based upon idea human-animal bond can integrated holistic approach families illnesses four categories: Pet Visitation, Therapy, Hippotherapy, Therapeutic Horseback Riding. …